Vice President JD Vance addressed his heated February exchange with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during an episode of “Pod Force One,” stating that relations between Washington and Kyiv have markedly improved since that encounter. His remarks on October 29 did not delve into the specifics of the confrontation in the Oval Office that drew global attention earlier this year.
“That was six [eight] months ago,” Vance told the Post’s columnist, Miranda Devine. “We have turned over a new leaf.”
Vance emphasized the importance of maintaining constructive relationships with both Ukraine and Russia to resolve the conflict, adding that both he and President Trump have a strong working rapport with the involved parties.
While Vance did not provide details on the February incident, administration officials described the meeting as “tense” and “undiplomatic.” Sources indicated that Vance questioned Ukraine’s use of U.S. military aid and challenged Zelensky’s requests for additional support, leading to what was described as an “uncomfortable moment” in the Oval Office this year.
Vance acknowledged that the February 28 meeting with Zelensky was likely the most well-known moment of his career, and possibly the most notable one he would ever experience.
Zelensky had visited the White House for discussions with President Trump about a potential minerals agreement. The talks began amicably, but tensions rose when Vance suggested to a reporter that Ukraine and Russia should pursue diplomatic solutions.
During a press event in the White House with Vance and Trump, Zelensky questioned the feasibility of diplomatic engagement with Russian President Vladimir Putin, leading to a heated exchange in front of global media. In an intimidating move, Vance criticized Zelensky for not expressing gratitude for past U.S. support.
The apparent improvement in relations coincides with a quiet shift in the Trump administration’s approach to the Ukraine conflict. Vance noted on the podcast that his initial doubts about continued funding for Ukraine, a position he held during his Senate career, have been influenced by classified intelligence briefings and discussions with European allies. “Sometimes you learn things in this job that change your perspective,” Vance said, while stressing the administration’s commitment to a diplomatic resolution.
Diplomatic sources indicate that Vance has participated in at least three video conferences with Ukrainian officials since the February encounter, working with Secretary of State Marco Rubio to develop what one official described as “a more productive working relationship.” Vance’s evolving stance on Ukraine policy marks a significant shift from his prior America-first approach, earning praise from some Republican senators who had criticized his earlier position.
